England News May,
2005
Tuesday, 31 May 2005 -
Colombia
2 England 3
-
Michael Owen's hat-trick helped England round off their
American tour with a hard-fought win against Colombia. Owen steered home
from close range after 35 minutes, then took advantage of a pass from debutant
Peter Crouch to add a second nine minutes later. Goalkeeper David James
gifted Mario Yepes a headed goal on the stroke of half-time before Owen steered
home David Beckham's cross after 58 minutes. Aldo Ramirez scored a second
for Colombia late on, but England held on. It was a personal triumph for
Owen, who equalled the 30 goals scored by Sir Tom Finney, Alan Shearer and Nat
Lofthouse with his first goal and surpassed them with his second. Only
Jimmy Greaves, Gary Lineker and 49-goal record holder Sir Bobby Charlton stand
in front of the Real Madrid forward now.
Dennis Wise is wanted by Southampton boss Harry Redknapp to bolster
Saints' attempt to bounce back into the Premiership. Wise, 38, quit as
Millwall player-boss at the end of the season after falling out with new
chairman Jeff Burnige. Redknapp has made an offer to the midfielder, who
is also being courted by QPR, and said: "I'd love to bring him here and I'm
certainly trying to. "He's the sort of player I'm after, I want to bring
in players with character and experience." Redknapp has a track record of
successfully using experienced players. He signed Paul Merson to help his
previous club Portsmouth win promotion, and then brought in Teddy Sheringham to
keep Pompey in the top flight. Redknapp said: "We've made him an offer but
it may be that he feels he's better off elsewhere. It's going to be a very
open division and a real battle to go straight back up. There are going to
be about nine teams in with a chance of automatic promotion. I'll have to
get rid of a few players but it's just as important that we keep our better ones
like Peter Crouch, who has to stay." If Redknapp lands his man, Wise will
complete a full circle in returning to Southampton. Wise was an apprentice
at The Dell but was released after failing to make an impression.
David Beckham has hinted that he may be prepared to
play in the United States before he ends his career as signs of his growing
popularity in that part of the world were evident ahead of England's friendly
international with Colombia.
Beckham was greeted with the kind of media
frenzy and flashing light bulbs that have probably not greeted a soccer player
in America since the days of Pele, George Best and Franz Beckenbauer in the mid
1970s as he gave his pre-match press conference. In the immediate term the
30-year-old sees his playing career at Real Madrid and he is prepared to hold
talks over a new deal - he has two years left of his current contract - in the
summer. But Beckham, who is launching his soccer academy in Los
Angeles later this week, did not rule out the possibility of a spell in the
States before he hangs up his boots.
Stuart Downing
will undergo exploratory knee surgery on Wednesday morning. Downing, 20,
was sent home from England's tour of America after jarring his knee in training.
Although the damage is not thought to be serious a specialist will carry out an
arthroscopic investigation to assess the extent of the injury. Boro's
medical staff believe Downing will be fit for the start of the new Premiership
campaign in August.
Mark Wright
has been unveiled as the new manager of Peterborough United. The former
England and Liverpool central defender left Chester last summer, a day before
their return to the Football League, and takes over after owner Barry Fry
stepped down as manager. Fry revealed he had 91 applications for the
position he vacated and he has decided to hand Wright the task of helping Posh
bounce back to League One.
Monday, 30 May 2005 -
Peter
Crouch will make his England debut against Colombia after overcoming
an ankle injury. But defenders Sol Campbell (ankle) and
Wes Brown (knee), and midfielder
Kieran Richardson
(hamstring) have been ruled out. Fulham's
Zat Knight will make his full
debut in central defence alongside Chelsea full-back
Glen Johnson. Captain
David Beckham and striker Michael Owen have both arrived from Spain to give the
side some experience. Beckham will lead the side out in New Jersey while
Owen will line up alongside Crouch at the Giants Stadium.
Sven-Göran Eriksson
said: "Crouch had a good session today. I talked to him and he says he doesn't
feel anything. I am looking forward to seeing him, he is a different
type of player. I hope he will do well." Beckham also welcomed Crouch's
addition to the squad, adding, "having a tall man like Peter Crouch up front
suits my sort of game". The Southampton front man was relieved to have
proved his fitness after missing out on his debut in Saturday's win over the
United States. He said: "I did have doubts about whether I would make it
or not but I've come through fine. This is a big lift for me because on Friday I
was devastated. It is not every day that you are in line for your England
debut and to miss out against America because of an injury in training was a
massive blow." Eriksson's choice in defence, though, was limited with
Luke Young joining Campbell and
Brown on the injury list. But the Swede played down the issue. He said:
"We will sort it out, we will have four defenders on the pitch. Phil
Neville will play right-back with Glen Johnson and Zat Knight playing in central
defence."
Sunday, 29 May 2005 -
Sol Campbell and Kieran
Richardson are major doubts for Tuesday's friendly against Colombia
in New Jersey. Campbell will have a scan on Monday to assess an ankle
problem suffered early on in yesterday's 2-1 win. And Richardson, who
limped off with a hamstring problem, may well miss out. But
Ashley Cole, who went off in the
second half with a hamstring injury, may be fit to play at Giants Stadium.
Sven-Göran Eriksson
is likely to give striker Peter
Crouch a run-out - if he recovers from the ankle knock that prevented him
from making his debut against the USA. Crouch said: "It is not as serious
as I first thought. I've got a couple of days to recover and it's going to be
touch and go but I'm hopeful. Sven has not said anything about the game on
Tuesday but he has told me to try to get right for the game so I'm sure I'll
play some part. To be named in the team and to miss out was gutting."
Campbell, who has just returned to action after Achilles tendon and ankle
problems, said: "I twisted my ankle. I'll have an MRI scan and take it from
there. Hopefully it's not ligament damage but we'll have to wait and see.
It's the left ankle. I did it in the first two minutes and played on. Of course,
it affected my performance because I couldn't really do what I wanted to do."
Eriksson's squad will be lifted by the arrival of regular skipper David Beckham
and Michael Owen, who have been released by Real Madrid. But Owen
Hargreaves will not fly out after Eriksson allowed the midfielder to stay with
Bayern Munich for a match to mark the opening of their new stadium.
Saturday, 28 May 2005 -
U.S.
1 England 2
- Kieran
Richardson struck a dream double on his debut to give England victory.
Manchester United's 20-year-old winger, who ended the season on loan at West
Brom, made a spectacular entry with a stunning free-kick after four minutes.
He swept home a low finish two minutes before half-time before going off after
the break with a hamstring injury. The USA troubled England's defence,
with Landon Donovan hitting an upright in the first-half before Clint Dempsey
headed home after 78 minutes. England's unfamiliar line-up - with Alan
Smith drafted in as a late replacement for Peter Crouch - got off to a dream
start courtesy of Richardson. The youngster showed great confidence to
step forward and curl a free-kick beyond Kasey Keller into the top corner from
20 yards after Eddie Pope fouled Andrew Johnson. England had lived
dangerously in the opening period, but struck a crucial blow as Richardson added
his second after 43 minutes. Johnson and Cole combined on the edge of the
area and Richardson arrived to shoot low past Keller.
Michael Owen notched up his 13th league goal of the
season as Real Madrid ended another disappointing campaign with a 3-1 victory at
Real Zaragoza. The England international put Real ahead after 22 minutes
before being replaced by Luis Figo at half-time. After Zaragoza grabbed an
equaliser, Brazilian pair Roberto Carlos and Ronaldo sealed the win for the
side. Real have failed to win a major trophy for the second consecutive
season, with Barcelona having already league title.
Peter Crouch
has been ruled out of England's friendly against the USA. The 24-year-old
striker suffered a foot injury during training when he was caught by defender
Sol Campbell, who will captain the side in Chicago. Crouch was set to make
his debut but Alan Smith seems likely to replace him. Sven-Göran Eriksson
had explained: "We don't know how bad it is but we will see how things are on
Saturday morning."
Friday, 27 May 2005 -
Kieran
Richardson and
Peter Crouch will make
their full England debuts against the USA tomorrow. The Manchester United midfielder is expected to
play on the left with Stewart
Downing ruled out of the tour after jarring his knee in training.
Another midfielder, Michael Carrick,
was forced to miss training on Thursday with blistered feet but will win his third cap.
Coach Sven-Göran Eriksson
named the duo in an unfamiliar looking side. Goalkeeper David James is
recalled, while defender Glen
Johnson and striker Andy Johnson
have also earned places.
England team: James, G Johnson, Brown, Campbell, A Cole, J Cole, Jenas, Carrick,
Richardson, Crouch, A Johnson.
David
James is aiming to seize his chance in England's two-match tour of the
United States. The 34-year-old lost his place to Paul Robinson after the
2-2 World Cup qualifying draw with Austria in Vienna but Robinson has not made
the trip. James said: "I'd play for England anywhere against anyone.
Let's bring it on because I want to get involved. I've been very happy
with my season at Manchester City and the work I have done with goalkeeping
coach Tim Flowers has been very rewarding. It was disappointing I still
wasn't in the England team because I was that pleased with the way things had
gone. But that's football and when given another opportunity with England
- which is now - I've got to take it." Critics have said the games against
the USA and Colombia are of little value to the national team following an
arduous domestic campaign. But James said: "It is not the first team but
it does give other people an opportunity to impress. It is another chance
for people to prove themselves. If people like myself want to be involved in
future games, then here is a chance to impress."
Michael Owen says he is not jealous of his old
team-mates after their incredible Champions League triumph on Wednesday.
Owen left Anfield to join Spanish side Real Madrid last summer in an £8m deal.
"You can't keep looking back and second-guessing decisions like my move to Real
Madrid. People will say my timing for leaving was suspect but how was I to
know that Liverpool were about to go on the most incredible run to the final?
Who knows if they would have got to the final if I was leading the attack or if
I would have done things differently from Milan Baros. There are so many
turning points but now that they have come good I am thrilled for some of my old
colleagues such as Stevie Gerrard, Didi Hamann and Jamie Carragher. I hope
it does kick-start a great new era for Liverpool."
Andy Johnson
is wanted by Tottenham Hotspur. The 24-year-old England international
looks likely to leave Selhurst Park after Palace's relegation and Spurs boss
Martin Jol has targeted him. Johnson scored 22 times for the Eagles last
season and is currently on tour with the England squad in the US.
Thursday, 26 May 2005 -
Stewart
Downing has been ruled out of England's two matches in the United
States after suffering a jarred knee in training. Downing, 20, was hurt
during England's first training session in Chicago ahead of Saturday's
international with the host nation at Soldier Field Stadium. Doctors had
assessed whether he could play in that match or Tuesday's fixture against
Colombia.
London's bid team has not ruled out the possibility
of a British football side playing at the 2012 Olympics. The prospect of a
combined team for 2012 is expected to become a serious issue if London wins
hosting rights. "Certainly the FA has been very positive," said London
2012 communications director Mike Lee. "How that team is composed and how
it would qualify is up for question but I would not rule out a Team GB in London
in 2012."
Wednesday, 25 May 2005 -
final: In
Istanbul, Liverpool win an incredible final and are crowned Champions of Europe
for the fifth time in their history. Liverpool were 3-0 down at half-time
before captain Steven Gerrard
scored the first goal and set up a penalty for a second, before pegging the game back to 3-3.
Liverpool won the penalty shoot-out 3-2 before Gerrard lifted the trophy,
Jamie Carragher also had an
inspirational match. Scott
Carson remained on the bench.
Sol
Campbell will captain England against the United States on Saturday.
Sven-Göran Eriksson
said: "Sol is a leader. He is currently the most experienced
player in the squad and has a very important role to play for the team. He knows
that. This is a young, talented squad and Sol will be an excellent leader
for them - I am sure of that. We have a challenging match on Saturday and all
the players are looking forward to it."
Tony Adams could be about to resurrect his
managerial career in Italy. The former England and Arsenal defender has
been interviewed by Serie B sides Verona and Torino and also spoke to Juventus
about the possibility of becoming their defensive coach. The 38-year-old
has made clear his desire to coach abroad in the past - but does not speak a
word of Italian.
Rio Ferdinand has been banned from driving for 28
days after he was caught overtaking a police car at 105mph. The England
international, who admitted speeding, drove past the patrol car on the M6 in
Staffordshire on 9 January. Ferdinand, 26, of Alderley Edge, Cheshire, was
also fined £1,500 by magistrates in Newcastle-under-Lyme. The defender,
who was not in court, was criticised by the chairman of the bench for failing to
set a good example.
Tuesday, 24 May 2005 -
Graeme Le Saux, Southampton's former England left-back,
has announced his retirement from the game. The 36-year-old was part of
the side relegated from the Premiership, and has now decided to hang up his
boots. Le Saux, who won 36 caps and works for the BBC as a pundit, is
expected to continue his career in the media. He has had a series of
injury problems this season and revealed: "I decided at the beginning of the
season that this would probably be my last. I would much rather have
retired seeing Southampton stay in the Premiership, but it was just not meant to
be. Having constant and intensive treatment ahead of every game, my body
knows how hard I've tried this season."
Dennis Wise is in discussions with Queens Park
Rangers over a playing contract at Loftus Road. The 38-year-old recently
left his position as Millwall player-boss but is keen to delay hanging up his
boots. QPR chief executive Mark Devlin told the club's website: "Dennis
has kept himself very fit and would be a great addition to our squad. He's
a proven winner and we have young players here who could learn a lot from a
player with his experience."
Scott Parker
is close to joining Everton from Chelsea for £6 million. Everton manager
David Moyes has made the 24-year-old midfield man his top summer target and
hopes that Champions League football will tempt Parker. It is understood
that the two clubs are locked in talks, although Birmingham City are also
interested.
US Squad
update: Bruce Arena has called in forward Josh Wolff to the USA's squad in
preparation for the match against England. Wolff, who has 29 career caps
and seven goals with the U.S., has already scored four goals and four assists in
seven games for the Kansas City Wizards in 2005.
Steve McClaren, the England assistant coach, has
launched a staunch defence of their controversial American tour. England
leave for the United States later this week. The squad is missing a host
of first-choice stars but McClaren insists the tour will be worthwhile.
"It is a great opportunity for the coaches, and for the manager, to look at
players. The FA and Sven are not just looking at the team that is going to
the World Cup next year. They are also looking at the team that is going
to the European Championships two years after that, the next World Cup and what
have we got coming through. For me personally, I think if ever you need to
induct young players into it, it is when you go away on tour and you find out
about them." McClaren believes that the opportunity to look at players
such as Boro's own Stewart Downing,
Southampton striker Peter Crouch
and Fulham defender Zat Knight
could prove vital for the future. "You find out now rather than, 'Oh, we
have had the World Cup, now then, let's have a look at so-and-so'. You
have already had a look and you have either said, 'Yes, they will do it', or you
have dismissed them, so you are in a far better position after the World Cup to
say 'He can do it, he can handle it, he has got the temperament'. England
is all about temperament - they have got the ability, it is all about can they
handle it, and you are going to find that out."
Andy Johnson
is no longer a target for Birmingham City. The England international, who
left St Andrews for London in a £750,000 deal three years ago, scored 21
Premiership goals in Palace's relegation campaign. "Crystal Palace made it
clear that he is not for sale and at no point was a bid actually placed.
As far as we are concerned that is the end of the matter and manager Steve Bruce
will look at other targets."
Monday, 23 May 2005 -
Colin Cooper has agreed a new one-year contract at
Middlesbrough. Cooper, 38, who also played for Millwall and Nottingham
Forest, has made over 400 appearances in two spells at Boro after coming through
the youth ranks. "We're delighted to have people like Colin round the
club, he's been a fantastic servant," chief executive Keith Lamb said. His
future had been in doubt after he was loaned to Sunderland last season.
John Salako has been released by Brentford after
just one season.
Sunday, 22 May 2005 -
US Squad
update: Arrival in Chicago today in preparation of the team's friendly against
England. As a late addition, defender Eddie Pope has been added to the squad in
the absence of defender Oguchi Onyewu, who will be playing for his club
Standard Liege in a Belgian playoff match for a spot in the 2005-06 UEFA Cup. The Belgian playoff is scheduled for Thursday, 26th and Sunday, 29th. As
for the squad, Bruce Arena's 19-player squad will begin training in Chicago
tomorrow.
AC Milan manager Carlo Ancelotti would be interested
in signing Steven Gerrard - if
the 24-year-old Liverpool captain decides to leave Anfield this summer.
The two teams meet in the Champions League final on Wednesday and Ancelotti
said: "Steven Gerrard is a great player. Right now he is a Liverpool
player and I am not going to upset Liverpool by talking any more about him.
But it will be different if he decides in the summer that he wants to leave.
He is undoubtedly one of the best midfield players in the world. Of
course, any top club would want him in their side. I like him very much - he is
a wonderful player."
David Beckham insists he did not get
booked deliberately to ensure he is available for England's tour to the United
States. The Real Madrid midfielder was cautioned during his club's 0-0
draw with city rivals Atletico Madrid last night. The yellow card took him
to the bookings threshold and he will be suspended for Real's final game of the
campaign against Real Zaragoza next weekend. His suspension means he could
now link up with the England squad ahead of their first game of their two-match
tour against the USA on May 28. But while Beckham is unsure if he will be
granted permission to join up with his country, he is adamant he did not set out
to be cautioned to ensure he could lead England in both matches. "I didn't
get booked deliberately," affirmed Beckham. "I would never do that. It would
never have been a yellow card in England. As far as I am concerned I will
be spending the week with the team. I wanted to play in the Zaragoza game."
Saturday,
21 May 2005
- Gary
Neville has become the latest player to pull out of England's summer tour
to the USA - with Charlton Athletic's
Luke Young taking his place. The Manchester United defender was due to
captain his country if David Beckham and Michael Owen were not released by Real
Madrid for the first game. But the groin injury which kept Neville out of
Saturday's FA Cup final has forced his withdrawal.
final: Arsenal
beat Manchester United 5-4 on penalties after a scoreless two hours.
Ashley Cole and Sol Campbell take
home a winners medal, Wes Brown ,
Rio Ferdinand, Paul Scholes, Wayne
Rooney, Alan Smith and Gary
Neville all received loser's medals. Cole and Scholes both received yellow
cards.
Owen Hargreaves has
revealed he would be interested in a move to Liverpool after they were linked
with a £2.5m deal for the England midfield man. The 24-year-old is
expected to leave Bayern Munich at the end of the season. And he said:
"Liverpool are a very interesting club. They are a very strong team and it is
clear they have a bright future under Rafael Benitez. But really I don't
want to say more until the German cup final against Schalke 04 is out of the
way."
Friday,
20 May 2005
- Andy Johnson
is wanted by West Bromwich Albion, who have offered £2m plus Robert
Earnshaw for the Crystal Palace striker , according to reports. Palace
chairman Simon Jordan is understood to have rejected the offer from the Baggies,
one of a number clubs interested in the 24-year-old. Birmingham City
chairman David Gold admitted on Thursday that his club would like to re-sign
Johnson. Johnson has insisted that he will stay with Palace, despite the
club being relegated from the Premiership.
Steve McManaman
has been released from his club, Manchester City. The 33-year-old
struggled to make an impact at the club since joining from Real Madrid in 2003
because of a recurring Achilles injury. "Steve is going away on holiday
for a break from football," Manchester City manager Pearce said. "He will
decide then where his future lies - but it is not here. Our finances meant we
couldn't keep him."
Joe Cole's goal helped
Premiership champions Chelsea beat South Korean champions Suwon Bluewings 1-0 in
an exhibition friendly.
Thursday, 19 May 2005
-
US Squad
update: Midfielder Kerry Zavagnin has been called up as replacement for Pablo
Mastroeni, who injured himself in Wednesday's match between Colorado Rapids and
FC Dallas.
Sven-Göran Eriksson
is resigned to being without skipper David Beckham and
Michael Owen for England's opening match of their tour of the United States.
Beckham and Owen are almost certain not to be freed by Real Madrid to play
against the host nation in the Soldier Field stadium in Chicago on May 28.
It is a surprise move given that Madrid's final league game against Real
Zaragoza is a meaningless fixture as they cannot overhaul champions Barcelona
and also are guaranteed runners-up spot. The Football Association had been
considering making an official representation to Madrid to allow Beckham and
Owen to be part of the England squad from the early stages of the eight-day
trip. But it is now not attempting to go down that route as the feedback
received from the Bernabeu club is they want the duo to complete their club
commitments. Instead Beckham and Owen will fly out to America on Monday
week for the final game of the tour against Colombia in the Giants stadium.
Ashley Cole
wanted to see his salary tripled in recent discussions with Highbury officials,
according to Peter Hill-Wood. He also raised fears at the rise in "player
power" in the wake of the Bosman ruling. "If you take someone like Ashley
Cole, he has another two years to go. He wanted something like three times
what we are paying him. We said we can't do that." Cole, who is believed
to be on a salary of £27,000 a week, and his agent Jonathan Barrett have been
involved in negotiations with the Gunners. It is thought the club turned
down an initial demand of about £70,000 a week but then put forward a "final
offer" of £55,000 to the player, which Cole is reported to have rejected.
Frank Lampard
is keen to get back to fitness after a toe operation as he has already started
looking ahead to next season. "I will have to keep off the foot for a bit
so I will have a rest but as soon as I'm able to, I'll be out jogging again.
This last season has been unbelievable but already you have to think ahead.
This was a great club when I signed but in the position we are in now, we can
really dominate for some time. We know there will be new faces coming in
but everyone has total confidence in manager José Mourinho not to rock the boat.
He will improve where he sees fit but he will not want to upset what we have
built here. It is not just the team we have built here but the spirit and
the togetherness and I am sure he will take all these things into account when
he looks to strengthen the squad."
Alan Ball has sold off his 1966 World Cup medal for
£164,800. The medal was auctioned at Christie's in London on Thursday as
part of special sale of football memorabilia.
David Beckham has voiced his disappointment at
another season without a trophy at Real Madrid. The former Manchester
United midfielder has not won any silverware since joining the club two summers
ago. But the 30-year-old told Spanish radio station Cadena Cope: "I am not
used to not winning trophies. It is the first time I have gone two years
without winning anything and, like the rest of the team, I am upset that we have
not won anything."
Steve McClaren has stated talks over a new
Middlesbrough deal will not include him asking for a get-out clause.
McClaren is involved in England boss
Sven-Göran Eriksson's coaching set-up and
has been touted as a future manager of the national team. "I would never
negotiate a contract with a get-out clause. It's not necessary.
People talked about my ambition. They were false in thinking it lies with
England or another club. They said my only ambition was to be somewhere
else. They got that totally wrong. The most important thing I have to do
is be successful here. One bad season and you're out of the reckoning. The
pressure is on me achieving here. This is starting to feel like my club.
It's getting better each year. I have been in management for four years so it's
still very early for me. I'm still learning, still improving, still tweaking my
philosophy. The chairman has allowed me the freedom to make mistakes, to
get things wrong. He has been patient with me. I feel comfortable at this club."
David Moyes has leapt to the defence of Manchester
United striker Wayne Rooney and
criticised the 19-year-old's detractors. Moyes managed Rooney before he
was sold by Everton to United in a £30m deal and he said: "The attention is
always going to be hard for him. "Young boys have to grow up and we all go
through the same things and have done the same things. The critics have
probably done the same things as Wayne has."
Jason Wilcox has agreed a new 12-month contract with
Leicester City. Wilcox, 33, played only 15 games last season because of
injury but boss Craig Levein said: "I am sure he will be an integral part of our
squad next season. "He is a model professional and showed a lot of grit
and determination. Retirement never crossed his mind. Jason is the kind of
player you want in the dressing room and I'll look forward to welcoming him
back."
Wednesday, 18 May 2005 -
Championship play-off second leg: Joe Royle's Ipswich Town lose at home to West Ham United.
A 2-0 defeat renders Town to another Championship season. Royle said: "If
I'm honest they've probably got better players than us. Our lads have climbed
mountains to get here and I won't criticise them. I looked at them in the
dressing room and they are crestfallen, but they've not let anyone down at all.
I think the play-off system is wrong but that's not a complaint. I think
West Ham's bit of extra class up front made the difference. I've told the
lads to go away and forget it. We've got six weeks and then we go again. I'm
disappointed, but these lads have let no-one down."
:
England remain 6th in the latest rankings.
The Premier
League inquiry into the alleged illegal approach by Chelsea for Arsenal
defender Ashley Cole will deliver
a verdict on 1 June. Cole is accused of approaching Chelsea while the
Blues, manager José Mourinho and chief executive Peter Kenyon are charged with
approaching him. A two-day inquiry into the meeting - which allegedly was
held at a London hotel in January - ended today.
Tuesday, 17 May 2005 -
League One play-off second leg: Brian Little's Tranmere Rovers repair the
deficit and beat Hartlepool United 2-0 after extra time, ending the tie in a 2-2
aggregate. But they could not overcome United in the penalty shoot-out,
losing 6-5.
England
have called up
Kieran Richardson and
Zat Knight for their two-match
tour of the USA. Manchester United midfielder Richardson has enjoyed a
productive spell on loan at West Bromwich Albion and comes in for knee injury
victim Shaun
Wright-Phillips. He was placed on standby by coach Sven-Göran Eriksson
along with Michael Dawson, but
the Tottenham Hotspur defender's calf injury means he misses out to Knight.
The Fulham centre-half replaces
Matthew Upson who has a hernia. Knight, 25, has played four times for
the England under-21s and has been a regular starter for Fulham all season.
Richardson, who has three under-21 caps to his name, was instrumental in West
Brom's successful battle against relegation and Eriksson described him as a
"tremendous talent". "He's impressed me and I look forward to having him
with us," the Swede said. "I hope he can make the most of this opportunity with
England, just as he has done with West Brom. And Zat Knight is another
player I have been aware of for some time. He has all the attributes to be
a top defender so it will be interesting to see how he does with us on this
tour. It's an opportunity for him to show that he has the ability to
play at the very highest level so it's a good chance for him."
Teddy Sheringham has been named the Championship
player of the season. Sheringham received 36% of the fans' vote, Preston
striker David Nugent was second with 34% and Reading midfielder Steven Sidwell
(16%) finished third. "Teddy still has so much class and quality," said
Chris Kamara, chairman of the panel which chose the nominees. "And for him
to have scored 20 goals in 33 league games is incredible, considering he's 39
years old."
Des Walker was arrested for being drunk just hours after
his own testimonial match. The ex-Nottingham Forest defender was issued
with a fixed penalty notice in the early hours of Tuesday morning. Police
said they were called to reports of a domestic disturbance in The Park area of
Nottingham where a 39-year-old man was arrested. On Monday evening nearly
14,000 fans watched a match in honour of his 14 years at Forest. Stars at
the game, which was followed by a private party in the Lace Market, included
Stuart Pearce, Steve Stone, Ian Wright and Les Ferdinand. A spokesman for
Nottinghamshire Police said: "A 39-year-old man was arrested for being drunk and
disorderly at an address in The Park after reports of a domestic disturbance at
around 5.30am." Walker was not charged but received a fixed penalty notice
of between £50 and £70.
Monday, 16 May 2005 -
US Squad
announced.
Shaun
Wright-Phillips has reiterated that he plans to stay at Manchester
City, despite them missing out on a Uefa Cup place. The 23-year-old has
been linked with Chelsea and Arsenal but says he has no intention of leaving.
"I signed a four-year contract last August and when I signed it was with the
intention of staying. That is where I want to be and until my contract
runs out I am not thinking of moving. It is my home. The fans have really
taken to me and I think that is because I have come through the ranks. I
came here when I was 16 and went from the youth team to the first team and the
fans supported me all the way. I am settled here."
Glenn Hoddle has
ended the speculation about his future by signing a new deal with Wolverhampton
Wanderers. Wolves have suffered just one defeat in the Championship since
Hoddle, 47, succeeded Dave Jones in December and finished the season in ninth
place.
Sunday, 15 May 2005 -
Bryan Robson's West Bromwich Albion (17th) have escaped relegation on a rollercoaster
final day of matches in the Premiership. The Baggies beat Portsmouth
(16th) 2-0,
and that win, combined with other results, kept them up by a point.
Kieran Richardson, on
England standby, scored West Brom's second. Jubilant boss Robson said
afterwards: "This is the best ever. It is a fantastic feeling. The
lads have done me proud and worked their socks off. They deserve this."
Crystal Palace (18th) were eight minutes from survival but Charlton Athletic's
(11th)
equaliser sent them down, Andy
Johnson scored Palace's second through a penalty, his 20th league goal this
term.
Norwich City (19th) surrendered meekly with a 6-0 thumping at Fulham (13th). Robert
Green conceding all six. Andrew Cole scoring Fulham's sixth goal, and his
11th of the season.
Southampton's (20th) 27-year stay in the top flight ended with a 2-1 defeat at home to
Manchester United (3rd). Kevin Phillips and Jamie Redknapp going down with the Saints.
Graeme Le Saux is retiring.
The other key issue to be resolved on the final day was who would be the final
team to qualify for Europe. Steve McClaren's Middlesbrough (7th), who were in
pole position, eventually held on with a 1-1 draw at Stuart
Pearce's Manchester City (8th), but only thanks to the heroics of the 'Boro
goalkeeper. His late penalty save from Robbie Fowler prevented City
stealing all three points and the win that would have seen them swap places with
the Teesside club.
Elsewhere on the final day, Chelsea (1st) drew at Newcastle United (14th), with a
penalty from Frank Lampard, his
12th goal of the campaign, but
Arsenal (2nd) lost 2-1 at Birmingham City (12th),
Emile Heskey scoring City's
second. Everton (4th) in the last Champions League place - but
with a negative goal difference - lost at Bolton Wanderers (6th), who are just behind Liverpool
(5th) on goal difference after they beat Aston Villa (10th) 2-1,
Gareth Barry scoring for Villa.
Tottenham Hotspur (9th) also miss out on Europe after a goalless draw at home to
Blackburn Rovers (15th), who like Portsmouth and Fulham already knew they were safe
from the threat of the final-day trap door.
Gary
Neville is on standby to captain England in the first match of their tour
to the US. Neville will take the armband against the USA on 28 May if Real
Madrid refuse to release England skipper David Beckham and vice-captain Michael
Owen. Sven-Göran Eriksson
plans to ask Real to let the pair go now that Barcelona have clinched the
Spanish title. Meanwhile, Eriksson has placed Tottenham Hotspur's
Michael
Dawson and West Bromwich Albion's
Kieran Richardson on standby for the squad.
Eriksson added: "We have two players on standby - Michael Dawson, who had one
training session with us a couple of years ago - and Kieran Richardson, who has
had a very good season at West Brom (on loan from Manchester United). They
are both interesting players and I didn't want to put any senior players on
standby."
Real Madrid have insisted they are not interested in
signing Rio Ferdinand from Manchester United. The Spanish giants issued a
statement following reports in the English press claiming Ferdinand was a
target. "Real Madrid have written to Manchester United denying they have
any interest in signing Rio Ferdinand or any other player from the English
club." Ferdinand has yet to sign a new contract at United, and reportedly wants
more than £100,000-a-week.
Steve Gibson, the Middlesbrough chairman, has
criticised England coach Sven-Göran Eriksson
as manager Steve McClaren was again touted as the Swede's successor.
Eriksson revealed he may step down after the 2006 World Cup and claimed an
Englishman should take over from him. McClaren is in the frame and Gibson
said: "Sometimes Sven says too much too often. I'm not aware it is the
role of the current England manager to select the next England manager.
What I am aware of is that Steve McClaren works with Eriksson in the England
set-up, and has an ambition to one day be England manager. But he will know when
that time is right. He is in his fourth year of management in the
Premiership and I suspect that Steve would consider the next appointment as too
early for him."
Saturday, 14 May 2005 -
Championship play-off first leg: Joe Royle's Ipswich Town come from behind to
draw 2-2 at West Ham United. Royle said: "We got a goal at a vital
time and the half-time talk was easy then. I think that's the 13th time
we've come from behind to get a result this season. We felt we could go on to
win." Royle admitted he was unhappy with several refereeing decisions
during the hard-fought match at Upton Park. "We were slightly aggrieved by
one or two decisions. I felt at one stage they were getting everything
except air miles. I'm a fan of Uriah Rennie's, but I don't think when he looks
at the video of this game he'll be particularly proud of it."
Friday, 13 May 2005 -
League One play-off first leg: Brian Little's Tranmere Rovers lose at Hartlepool
United. Little said: "It's going to be hard work for us now. The second
goal has given them a huge boost. They scored goals at periods when we
looked comfortable and I was disappointed with both goals. At home we will
have a go and give them a game."
Sven-Göran Eriksson
has revealed he may quit as England coach if they win the World Cup in
Germany next year. The Swede, who has led his side to the top of Group
Six, also believes the Football Association should appoint an Englishman when he
decides to leave. "Winning the World Cup is my biggest ambition. If we won
the World Cup it might be the time to go. The climate would be right," said
Eriksson. "If asked, I would say the next England manager should come from
this country. I have a contract for another two years after the World Cup
in Germany and we will see, but if you win it where do you go from there?
Everything is in place. This is the best squad I have had and they are good
enough to win it."
Wayne Rooney faces a charge of driving without due
care and attention after an accident at a shopping centre. The 19-year-old
England striker's BMW X5 was in collision with a Nissan Primera driven by a
45-year-old woman. The United star was involved in the accident at a
shopping centre in Cheadle Hulme in Stockport, Greater Manchester, on Thursday
afternoon. Mr Rooney is to get a letter summoning him to Stockport
Magistrates Court.
Graeme
Souness has once again slammed England's controversial tour of America -
stating that 'Mickey Mouse' fixtures could prove damaging to tired players.
Souness, talking to Sky Sports News, was asked if he was pleased for
Jermaine Jenas after he was included in the England squad for the summer's visit
to the US. "It's a Mickey Mouse couple of games in America. Why should I
be pleased about that? All it is, is dragging the season out even more for
my players. [Jenas] is a player that ran into problems three or four weeks
ago with muscle fatigue and the very last thing he needs is to go to America to
play meaningless games when he has to report back possibly two weeks later for
training with us. How can I be pleased with that? The players will
make all the right noises about wanting to play for their country, but they will
tell you privately they wouldn't like to go."
The
Wembley Stadium shortlist of five possible names for the footbridge that
will connect the new stadium to Wembley town centre has been announced by the
London Development Agency. Sir Alf Ramsey, Sir Bobby Charlton, Sir Geoff
Hurst, The White Horse and Live Aid have been chosen after the LDA received more
than 670,000 suggestions.
Thursday, 12 May 2005 -
Sven-Göran Eriksson
has named his
England squad for the US Tour matches against the USA and Colombia. Peter
Crouch has earned his first ever call-up to an England squad after having
enjoyed a successful season at Southampton. The 24-year-old striker has
previously won six England Under-21 caps and has scored 12 goals in the
Premiership this term. There is also a return to an England squad for Tottenham
Hotspur midfielder Michael Carrick.
The former West Ham United man last played in the August 2001 friendly against
Netherlands having made his debut against Mexico three months earlier.
Captain David Beckham, his Real Madrid teammate Michael Owen and Bayern Munich's
Owen Hargreaves will all miss
the first match against the USA but will join up with the squad for the second
match against Colombia.
David Beckham has been forced to pull out of
training because of a thigh strain and may miss Real Madrid's match against
Sevilla on Saturday. The 30-year-old England captain, who has been in fine
form for Real in recent games, was not able to train on Wednesday and Thursday.
Coach Wanderley Luxemburgo will make a decision on whether the midfielder will
be fit on Friday.
Stuart Pearce has been named as the new manager of
Manchester City. The 43-year-old has held the position in a caretaker role
since Kevin Keegan quit as boss two months ago. Pearce, a former England
captain, has led the club to eighth place in the Premiership and on the brink of
a place in the Uefa Cup. Chairman John Wardle had intended to name
Keegan's successor in the summer but changed his plans given the impact Pearce
has had on the Eastlands outfit. The announcement will have the
overwhelming backing of the City squad, and the club's supporters and should
guarantee a full house for Sunday's crucial clash with Middlesbrough.
Rio Ferdinand is facing a driving ban after
overtaking a police car at more than 100mph. Police on the M6 northbound
near Stafford clocked the 26-year-old travelling at 106mph (170kmph) on 9
January, Stafford Magistrates heard. The defender passed the police patrol
car in his Chrysler C3000 at about 0945 GMT between junctions 12 and 14.
He did not attend court but entered a guilty plea through his solicitor.
The case was adjourned until 25 May when Ferdinand, from Alderley Edge,
Cheshire, will appear before a disqualification court in Newcastle-under-Lyme in
Staffordshire.
Alan Shearer - Newcastle chairman Freddy Shepherd
says he would like the former England international to succeed Graeme Souness as
boss of the Magpies. "Graeme has said he wants Alan to take over when he
leaves and, as far as I know, it's what our fans want. I've not said it
before - but I am saying it right now. And, remember, I'm no different from the
fans because I'm a supporter as well. It's what I want."
Wednesday, 11 May 2005 -
Wayne
Rooney and Rio Ferdinand will not go on England's summer tour to the
United States. Coach
Sven-Göran Eriksson
agreed to a request from Sir Alex Ferguson to rest Rooney from the games.
Ferdinand, meanwhile, is being allowed to recover from a knee injury following a
gruelling domestic season. Liverpool pair
Jamie Carragher and
Steven Gerrard are in danger of
missing out on the games. They are likely to want to attend a tour of
Liverpool, planned for 28 May if they win the Champions League final against AC
Milan three days earlier. An FA spokesman said "This tour has always
been an opportunity for Sven and the coaching staff to look at some new players
a year before the World Cup in Germany. Next season, opportunities will be
at a premium for Sven to look at new players - so he feels this is a great
platform for some of the Premier League's bright young stars who have yet to
become established in the England team. It will be an opportunity to play
against non-European opposition the summer before the World Cup which nowadays
is few and far between due to larger qualifying groups. Sven believes this
is very important as we will expect to play teams from outside Europe in Germany
- subject to qualification. The next opportunity for a tour will
realistically not be until 2009, due to the large qualification groups for Euro
2008." Newcastle United midfielders
Kieron Dyer and Nicky Butt have
also been troubled by injury problems which look likely to rule them out of the
squad to be named on Thursday. The England coach believes the tour can
still be of great benefit, with a number of younger players now set to be given
a chance to make their mark in the absence of so many established figures.
Stewart Downing
could make an impact on the 2006 World Cup in Germany according to England boss
Sven-Göran Eriksson.
Middlesbrough winger Downing, 20, earned his first cap when he came on as
a substitute in the goalless draw with Netherlands "Downing could be ready
for the World Cup. You never know when he could be ready. "Before I picked
Joe Cole and waited for him to be ready. Suddenly he has become ready, so you
never know." Eriksson added: "The left-sided player does not have to be
left-footed. It would be good to have a left-footer but there is a small
percentage of them. You can dream about it but sometimes you don't find one."
Steve Stone is "gutted" after Portsmouth told him he will
not be offered a new deal. The 33-year-old would have earned a one-year
extension if he had played in 60% of Pompey's games this season but he has
featured in only 25 matches. Stone had the support of director of football
Velimir Zajec but new boss Alain Perrin has opted to release him. Pompey keeper
Shaka Hislop is also looking for a new club after being told he is surplus to
requirements at by Perrin. The 36-year-old's contract expires in the
summer and he says he needs to act fast to secure employment elsewhere.
Tuesday, 10 May 2005 -
Champions Chelsea came from behind to beat Manchester United 3-1 and create a
new Premiership points record of 94.
Joe Cole scored Chelsea's third.
John Terry's
season is over after the club confirmed he would undergo surgery on a toe injury
later this week. That rules him out of the Premiership champions' last two
games, plus the club's trip to Korea and also England's summer tour of America.
Earlier this month, Terry was voted Professional Footballers' Association player
of the year. This season he has scored eight goals from defence and lifted
two trophies.
The
naming of the bridge leading to the new Wembley Stadium will move a step
closer when a shortlist of possible names is unveiled on Friday 13 May.
Over 500,000 fans made nominations to the London Development Agency, and BBC
Radio Five Live will host a debate and announce the shortlist on Friday.
The public then have until 23 May to vote from those on the shortlist.
Gary Lineker, Sir Bob Geldof, Sir Bobby Moore, Martin Offiah and Jim Baxter have
all been suggested, among others. Humourous suggestions included the Billy
the Fish Bridge and the Wayne Bridge. "There's been a great public
response to naming this bridge which has stirred up a few friendly rivalries
across the world," said LDA exectuive director Tony Winterbottom. "When
it's completed it will connect the stadium with Wembley town centre so it
deserves a name that reflects Wembley's great history."
Ray Wilkins has revealed he will leave Millwall as soon as
a replacement for departed manager Dennis Wise is appointed. The assistant
manager told the club's website: "I confirmed to chairman Jeff Burnige that I
have no interest in taking the manager's job here. I will depart when a
new manager is appointed but I have promised to stay until that happens. I
will give the new manager all the information I can about the squad."
John Terry
has already set his sights on winning the Premiership title again next season -
when he wants the Blues to have an unbeaten campaign. "Our aim next season
has to be to go through the season without losing in the league," said the Blues
captain. "Maybe targeting an unbeaten season is setting the bar high but
that is what this club is all about. We must be thinking now we can only
build on what we've done and get better and make sure we win more trophies."
Robert Green
will not leave at the end of the season even if his club are relegated.
Norwich City manager Nigel Worthington has reiterated. The 25-year-old has
forced himself into international set-up with England and been a key to
Norwich's late revival in the battle for survival. "First of all, we're
not going down, and secondly, Robert Green is going nowhere. That's my
stance and also the stance of the board."
Sunday, 8 May 2005 -
Liverpool (5th) stumbled to an 11th defeat away from home allowing rivals
Everton (4th) to qualify for the Champions League. Arsenal's 3-1 win means
they are almost certain of finishing in second place. Steven Gerrard
scored Liverpool's consolation.
Final day of the Coca-cola Championship - Wigan Athletic won promotion to the
Premiership with a comfortable 3-1 win over Steve Coppell's Reading (7th).
The result ended Reading's own play-off hopes. It also prevented Joe
Royle's Ipswich Town (3rd) from reaching automatic promotion. Their 1-1
draw ensures a play-off against West Ham United (6th). Glenn Hoddle's
Wolverhampton Wanderers (9th) beat Sheffield United (8th) 4-2. Dennis
Wise's and Ray Wilkins' Millwall (10th) drew 0-0 with Burnley (13th).
Bottom-club Rotherham United (24th), managed by Mick Harford, attained a
credible scoreless draw with Leeds United (14th).
Dennis Wise has left his post as Millwall
player-boss after a meeting with new club chairman Jeff Burnige. "I've had
a meeting with the new chairman, he told me his direction and I didn't agree,"
said Wise.
Arsenè
Wenger has accused the Premier League of trying to scupper Arsenal's bid
to win the FA Cup with their scheduling of the Ashley Cole hearing. The
hearing into Chelsea's alleged "tapping" of Cole will take place on 17 and 18
May - days before the final. The Gunners boss said: "I've asked for it to
be postponed as I'm worried about our Cup final preparations but the Premier
League said 'no'." He also argued it had been delayed to ensure Chelsea
won the title.
Glenn Hoddle
expects to finalise a contract extension with Wolverhampton Wanderers
early next week. With Hoddle's current deal due to expire this summer, the
former England coach has been holding talks with the club over the last
fortnight. "We would like him to be our manager and we think he wants to
be with us," Wolves chief executive Jez Moxey said. "I'm meeting Glenn
early next week. We are very close to finalising matters."
Saturday, 7 May 2005 -
Stuart Pearce's Manchester City (8th) continued their push for a place in Europe
with a narrow 2-1 victory away at Aston Villa (10th). City raced out of
the blocks and Shaun
Wright-Phillips put them in front with a wonder goal, dancing past Villa
defenders and rifling into the corner. The last time Stuart Pearce won the
manager of the month award, at Nottingham Forest in January 1997, he won just
one of his next 15 games as the Reds were relegated from the Premiership.
He clearly was not going to allow the same collapse to happen to City and they
started looking every bit the league's in-form outfit.
Bryan Robson's West Bromwich Albion (20th) kept their survival hopes alive and
dented Manchester United's (3rd) bid to finish second in the Premiership with a
battling 1-1 draw at Old Trafford.
Final day of League One action -
Peter Taylor's Hull City (2nd) are
again beaten by a Brentford reserve side (4th). Brian Little's Tranmere
Rovers (3rd) are beaten by MK Dons (20th), who survive the drop. Colin Todd's Bradford City
(11th) are beaten by Oldham Athletic (19th). Roy McFarland's
Chesterfield (17th) draw with Swindon Town (12th). Paul Merson's Walsall
(14th) beat Stockport County (24th). Luton Town, who have Brian Stein as
reserve team coach, finish as champions.
Carlton Palmer's Mansfield Town (13th) are beaten by Leyton Orient (11th).
Keith Curle's Chester (20th) beat Brian Talbot's Oxford United (15th).
Friday, 6 May 2005 -
The
F.A. today banned
Sven-Göran Eriksson
from talking about England's controversial post-season tour to the United
States. The tour that no-one wants to go on has become the one he won't
even talk about. The two extra matches at the end of a gruelling campaign
have already been slammed as "nonsense" by Newcastle United manager Graeme
Souness and Arsenal boss Arsenè Wenger and the tour is badly hit by withdrawals.
Eriksson was at Upton Park to take questions from 20 England fans who had won a
competition with sponsors Carlsberg. But they were told even before
the 25-minute question-and-answer session by touchy FA spin doctors that the
American tour was off limits. One of the fans said: "As soon as we arrived we
were told the questions would be vetted and there could be no questions about
the North American tour." The FA claimed Eriksson will talk fully next
week when he announces his party for the games against the United States on May
28 and Colombia on May 31. Eriksson did, however, name Liverpool's
Champions League hero Jamie
Carragher a possible successor to David Beckham as England captain. John
Terry and Rio Ferdinand were also named as contenders. He said: "John
Terry is captain at Chelsea, Rio Ferdinand is sometimes captain at Manchester
United while Jamie Carragher has shown he is a leader. He showed what he can do
at the top level against Chelsea."
Frank Lampard
has won the Football Writers' Player of
the Year award. The 26-year-old was the Blues' top scorer with 12
league goals as they won their first title since 1955. He was selected
ahead of his Chelsea team-mate John
Terry, who picked up the Professional Footballers' Association player of the
year award last month. Liverpool defender
Jamie Carragher, who has
been outstanding in their run to the Champions League final, was third.
Lampard also won the Barclay's Player of the Month for April.
Stuart Pearce has scooped the Barclays Manager of
the Month award for April. Pearce, who took control in March, is the first
City boss to land the honour. And he helped the team go unbeaten in April
with home wins over Birmingham City, Liverpool and Portsmouth and away draws at
Charlton Athletic, Fulham and Blackburn Rovers. Since his appointment,
Pearce's side have only been beaten once in the league, a narrow 2-1 defeat away
to Spurs in his first game in charge.
Brian Talbot has been appointed as the new manager
of Oxford United. He replaces previous boss Ramon Diaz, who left the club
earlier this week - along with the rest of his coaching staff - when contract
talks broke down. Talbot, who has also previously managed West Bromwich
Albion, Aldershot and Rushden & Diamonds, left Oldham Athletic by mutual consent
in February. Talbot becomes the third full-time manager appointed by the U's
this season, following Graham Rix and Diaz.
Rio Ferdinand has hinted he may sign a new contract
at Manchester United before the end of the season. Ferdinand, 26, has come
under fire from United's fans for a delay in signing the deal, and boss Sir Alex
Ferguson has also ordered him to show loyalty. He said: "It might be done
before the end of the season, we will have to wait and see. I'm not
keeping anyone guessing about this, it is just the way the situation is with
these things."
Dion Dublin has been offered a new contract by
Leicester City, but goalkeeper Ian Walker has been released. Foxes boss
Craig Levein has hailed the 36-year-old's leadership skills since he joined the
club last summer. "I still see Dion as a striker and I told him that,"
Levein said. Jason Wilcox is still waiting to hear of his fate.
Thursday,
5 May 2005
-
Rio
Ferdinand has committed himself to England's tour of the United States.
United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has criticised the trip and threatened to withdraw
his players. But Ferdinand said: "I'll go on the trip. You want to play
for your country, simple as that. The club pay your wages and if they make
a decision, and the FA agree with it, then you stand back, but there is no doubt
in my mind - I want to play."
Paul Robinson
will miss the final two Premiership games, to dent Tottenham Hotspur's Uefa Cup
hopes. England keeper Robinson injured a knee when colliding with Darius
Vassell in the 5-1 win over Aston Villa. Head of medical services Dr
Charlotte Cowie confirmed that a scan showed ligament damage. Spurs were
hopeful Robinson would be fit for their run-in after initial tests suggested the
England keeper's injury was not serious. Manager Martin Jol had said
Robinson suffered a dead leg and was confident he would be fit for the last two
games.
Steve Stone knows he is not guaranteed a new contract for
next season at Portsmouth. Stone, 33, a free agent in the summer, has been
told he has the support of Pompey's director of football Velimir Zajec but
remains cautious. "I've learned never to count your chickens in this
game," said the former England international. "People might be saying
positive things, but the manager has to make the final decision."
Wednesday,
4 May 2005
-
Newcastle United earn their first away win since November 2004, but do it
without Alan Shearer. United beat Fulham 3-1 and climb to 12th.
Fulham are 16th and require a draw on Saturday to remain safe in the Premiership.
Shearer was left out of the Newcastle side requiring a rest, at his own request.
semi-final,
second leg: Liverpool will play AC Milan after the Italian side scored a last
minute goal against PSV Eindhoven. Milan lost 3-1, but progressed on the
away goals rule.
Steven Gerrard
has indicated that he sees his future at Liverpool. The Reds captain has
been repeatedly linked with a move to Chelsea, who were beaten by Liverpool in
the Champions League semi-finals on Tuesday. But Gerrard told the
Liverpool Echo: "After the Champions League final I'll be sitting down with
Rick Parry and the gaffer and discussing the future. Obviously a result
like this helps everyone at the club and we'll have a lot of positive things to
talk about."
Stuart Pearce is planning to extend his coaching
team - if he is confirmed as Manchester City manager. "I don't think you
should ever be happy with what you have, either on the pitch or the coaching
side. If there's anyone available we believe can benefit the club we would
try to get them in. I'm two games away from either getting a job or not
having one. The board asked my opinions but it would not be prudent to talk
about other staff."
Tuesday,
3 May 2005
-
semi-final,
second leg: Liverpool beat Chelsea by a controversial single goal to take the
reds to there first European Champions final in 20 years.
Steven Gerrard and
Jamie Carragher were
instrumental in the Liverpool side.
John Terry,
Frank Lampard and
Joe Cole starred for the
disappointed Chelsea side.
Frank
Lampard is to require surgery at the end of the season that is likely
to keep him out of England's tour of America. The Chelsea midfielder has a
foot injury that will force him to go under the knife, with team-mate
John Terry suffering from a
similar problem. Lampard will play through the pain between now and the
campaign's close but any surgery in likely to prohibit involvement with
Sven-Göran Eriksson's
outfit. It is expected that Terry too will miss England's controversial
summer trip to The States, with Lampard conceding that his captain's injury is
worse than his own. ''The problem is between the little toe and the next one.
Basically, it is a hole in the skin which flares up from time to time. I
will keep going until hopefully after the Champions League final and then have a
little operation to clean it out. John has had a similar problem for some time
and his looks worse than mine. Hopefully, we will win tonight and so reach the
Champions League final and if that happens and I have the foot done straight
away afterwards, that would rule me out of the England tour.''
Anthony Gardner fears
surgery may be the only cure for the foot injury which has ruined his season for
club and country. The 23-year-old had high hopes for a successful season
after gaining an England call-up and a first cap against Sweden last term.
But he has made just 14 starts after collecting the injury two months into the
new campaign. "I aggravated it in April and since then it has been
terrible. I can move the foot a little but I have had this problem for a
while and it was not getting any better. I've just had to try to manage
it, but it has got to the stage where I can't carry on with it any longer.
I originally picked it up in October and it has just been there all the time
since."
Les Ferdinand will not make a decision
on his future until the summer. The veteran Reading striker was due to
hang up his boots in the summer after joining The Royals in January. The
38-year-old's contract expires at the end of the season, but he then hinted that
he would prolong his career should Steve Coppell's side make it into The
Premiership. Reading go into their final game of the season at Wigan still
in with a shout of making the play-offs, and Ferdinand does not want to make a
decision just yet. The former Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur and QPR man says that
he will now not make a decision until the summer.
Nicky Barmby is in talks with Hull City
over a new contract at The Kingston Communications Stadium. Barmby has
played an instrumental role in Hull's promotion from League One this season. The
former Liverpool and Everton star initially signed a one-year deal with The
Tigers when he arrived on a free transfer from Leeds last summer. Barmby
has a clause in his contract which sees him offered another year if he plays
more than 20 games and the former England international has now activated the
clause. Hull are keen to keep Barmby as they believe his experience at the
highest level will prove invaluable in The Championship next term.
Dennis Wise has escaped punishment after
successfully arguing his case against a Football Association charge of improper
conduct. The Millwall player/manager was charged after throwing a water
bottle on the floor which appeared to hit the fourth official near the end of
the game with Cardiff City on February 22. But FA officials decided there
was no intent in the actions, even though Wise was sent to the stands at the
time.
Cyrille Regis admits the short-term future looks
"very dark indeed" for West Bromwich Albion after Monday's defeat to Arsenal.
The Baggies are second from bottom and face Manchester United and Portsmouth in
their remaining two games. Regis said: "The trapdoor is closing. They're
not going to get any favours at Manchester United. It's a tough ask, they
are looking for Crystal Palace and Southampton to draw to give any hope to the
situation." But Regis is confident that the Baggies are capable of
bouncing back at the first attempt - should their relegation be confirmed in the
next fortnight. Regis believes that the club should stick with former
team-mate and current boss Bryan Robson, regardless of their fate. "If we
do go down, we'll be well-stocked and in good condition for next year.
They are playing good football at times and they have got some good quality
players. I'm sure they will make a serious challenge next year." Should
West Bromwich Albion lose to Manchester United on Saturday, Albion will be
relegated if there is a winner from the match between fellow strugglers Crystal
Palace and Southampton.
Rio Ferdinand admits that he understands why
Manchester United fans jeered him for stalling on a new contract during their
win at Charlton Athletic. The defender was booed at The Valley by fans
angry at delays in the deal. Ferdinand, 26, said: "If I was one of them
I'd wonder when the deal was going to be signed as well. I won't pretend
it was a comfortable feeling to have your own supporters getting on your back
but they need to know I want to stay at Old Trafford. They couldn't be
further away from the truth if they think I want to go. Contracts do not
get signed in five minutes. Most players take about six months to sort out
a deal. I've no intention of leaving. I want the contract sorted. If I
could have signed it yesterday I would have." United boss Sir Alex
Ferguson, meanwhile, has attempted to defuse the contract saga by insisting he
does not want "to make a monster" out of the defender's deal.
Monday,
2 May 2005
-
Bryan Robson's West Bromwich Albion's Premiership survival hopes suffered a
setback as they lost at home 2-0 to Arsenal, who in turn kept themselves in pole
position for second place.
Shaun Wright-Phillips
is keen to be involved in England's summer tour of the United States. City
caretaker boss Stuart Pearce had expressed his reservations at Wright-Phillips
making the trip to America at the end of the season. Pearce fears the
flying winger could suffer burn-out if he is forced to make the trip for two
games with England at the end of the season and believes having only recently
returned from injury he would benefit from a rest. However,
Wright-Phillips is determined to be involved in England's squad for the tour and
he does not believe he needs a rest.
David Beckham has been handed a boost on his 30th birthday
with the news his foot injury is not as serious as was first thought.
Beckham was hobbling after a collision with Real Sociedad's Valery Karpin during
Real's 2-0 win on Saturday. Tests established that Beckham is suffering
from a mild form of arthritis which affects the ligament in his toe. "The
doctors are optimistic he will be fit to play the next game and he wants to
play."
Paul Robinson
will be fit for the final two games of the season and aid Tottenham Hotspur's
Uefa Cup quest. England stopper Robinson limped off during the second half
of Sunday's 5-1 win over Aston Villa. Spurs boss Martin Jol feared the
25-year-old could miss the run-in but scans showed no long-term damage.
Jol said: "Paul got a dead leg. He has had it scanned and there is no problem.
He'll be fit for the last two games."
Teddy Sheringham has been named the Championship's
player of the month for April. The veteran frontman scored three times in
six games - with all three goals proving decisive - to help the Hammers in their
push for the play-offs.
Wayne Rooney
has reportedly been dropped as guest of honour at a top schools match
after organisers said he was "not a good role model". The England and
Manchester United striker had been due to appear at the semi-final of an English
Schools' Football Association (ESFA) contest. But he was axed following
excessive swearing in a Premiership clash and allegations over his private life.
"There is no question that Wayne is an excellent footballer," said ESFA chief
executive John Read. But the ESFA and sponsors Coca-Cola had "decided not
to take up the appearance" of Rooney at next Monday's under-13s tournament at
Middlesbrough's Riverside stadium, he said. "We felt under the
circumstances, over what was being reported, that we could find a better role
model," he added. A replacement has yet to be announced.
Sunday,
1 May 2005
-
Manchester United (3rd) overpowered Charlton Athletic (11th) to stay in the hunt
for second place and an automatic Champions League slot. Debutant
keeper spilled a Wayne Rooney
shot, allowing Paul Scholes to fire home. Scholes then set up the second.
Just past the hour Alan Smith's
quick thinking embarrassed the Charlton defence when he got to the ball first
and then curled the ball round the keeper to put United 3-0 up. Rooney capped a
fine performance to score United's fourth, timing his run to perfection, before
lifting the ball over the downtrodden latics keeper.
Tottenham Hotspur boosted their Uefa Cup qualifying hopes with a stylish 5-1 win
over Aston Villa (10th). Villa's failure to deal with a couple of corners
led to Ledley King firing in.
Gareth Barry's penalty reduced the
deficit but two more Spur's goals capped a fine win. The result pushed
Spurs into seventh place above Middlesbrough on goal difference.
Leicester City (15th) ended their home campaign with a comfortable 2-0 victory
over Leeds United (14th), Dion Dublin scoring the first.
Arsenè Wenger has admitted that he might be
interested in signing David Beckham for Arsenal - if Real Madrid were willing to
sell the midfielder. "We will have some money to spend in the summer and
if there was a chance to sign David Beckham, we would look at it. If the
situation arises that it is possible, why not?"
Stewart Downing is discussing a new contract at Middlesbrough after
his agent brushed off a link with Newcastle United. The England cap had
been mooted as a target for The Magpies, with a swap deal involving Craig
Bellamy speculated upon. Newcastle manager Graeme Souness reacted with
surprise at the rumours, while it was a similar case for Downing's agent Ian
Elliott. The winger's representative confirmed that Boro's North East
rivals have not been in touch regarding any possible deal for the 20-year-old.
Instead, Elliott revealed that Downing is in the early stages of negotiations
for an improved deal at The Riverside Stadium. Downing only penned a new
long-term contract last season but Elliott outlined that plans are afoot for a
revised deal.
___________________
CG
England Football Online